Cape Town’s iconic First Thursdays event has something in store for everyone – whether it’s art- and design-related, food- and drink-focused, or music events to get down on the dance floor. These are some of the best events taking place on Thursday, 1 October 2026, to celebrate with friends, family, and strangers.

Late Night Thrift

Late Night Thrift is back in the bohemian suburb for October, and Lower Main Road is inviting Cape Town’s vintage lovers back for another evening. Shops on the Thrift Trail will spill out onto the pavement, and alongside rails and rails of great secondhand and sustainable fashion, there’ll be a busker stage, food trucks, and Fashion Police out to help you find the best deals.

A laidback alternative to First Thursdays in the Cape Town CBD, Late Night Thrift sees Observatory hosting a neighbourly after-hours celebration. By bringing together thrift stores, creative spaces, and social venues, it captures what makes Obs distinct: its sense of community, its alternative edge, and its love for the pre-loved and the quirky.

When: Thursday, 1 October 2026
Where: Lower Main Road, Observatory, Cape Town

Get great deals on vintage clothing with Late Night Thrift

ItsAHouse

One of the Mother City’s biggest House parties, ItsAHouse brings together beloved DJs and fans to form part of the genre’s underground culture. Resident DJs play each First Thursday, with special occasions featuring international producer talent taking over the decks.

After successfully relaunching in the winter of 2026, ItsAHouse is moving onto bigger events, bigger venues, and bigger star talent. For partygoers who just care about the music and don’t want to stress about dress codes, ItsAHouse is a community of house lovers who just want to groove. This month’s show is themed around exploring the “blueprint of House”.

Cost: From R100 per person. Book now on Quicket.

When: Thursday, 1 October 2026 | 5pm – 12am
Where: 70a Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town

KAYA’s Birthday

One of the biggest hotspots for young people in the city, Kaya Cafe is an intimate space with vibey music, trendy drinks, and filling snacks. On First Thursdays, the venue transforms into a vibrant hub for live performances, including acoustic sets, drag king shows, discussions, and captivating karaoke.

KAYA turns four years old this month, and to celebrate, the organisers are hosting a true birthday party. The evening starts with Hip Hop DJ Kilo, followed by KAYA’s very own Gina & Bradley, who perform an afro- and electrohouse set. Nucleus Sound rounds out the evening’s musical celebrations before the stage fills with any and all willing karaoke singers wanting to show off their vocals. The real groovers and shakers can join the after-party at Evol.

Cost: From R35 per person (early bird). Book now on Fixr.

When: Thursday, 1 October 2026 | 7pm – late | From 10pm (karaoke)
Where: KAYA HQ, 35 Loop Street, Cape Town City Centre

The Craving

An immersive theatre experience that puts audiences in the middle of a psychological thriller unfolding within a fictional restaurant, The Craving is the latest of The Outlore Base’s series of unsettling and experimental stage shows. What seems like a passionate chef preparing an avant-garde seven-course meal gives way to her twisted experiments on staff and guests in the pursuit of culinary perfection.

As she gets closer and closer to her goals, she uncovers a truth that begs the question: who is creating who?

There are three types of tickets available throughout the run. The “Watcher” is given a phone and tasked with recording the troubling events as they unfold, showing what is happening through their own eyes. “Tasting” tickets allow guests to reserve a seat for the seven-course dining experience, although what exactly they eat is up to the chef (fussy eaters are encouraged to save their stomachs). Finally, general access allows viewers to experience the night as it dives further into madness.

Cost: R180 per person (general access) | R150 per person (Watcher) | R750 per person (Tasting Ticket). Book now on Quicket.

When: Thursday, 1 October 2026 | 8pm – 10.30pm
Where: The Outlore Base, 80 Hout St, Cape Town City Centre

WorldArt

Open since 2004, WorldArt spotlights contemporary urban art from African creatives across a range of mediums.

Voice for Women:

Voice For Women is a photographic documentation project capturing South Africa’s national mobilisation against femicide. The project aims to document not only the protest itself, but the people, emotions, solidarity and collective action surrounding a defining moment in South Africa’s ongoing conversation about violence against women.

When: Thursday, 1 October 2026
Where: 68 Long St Corner of Long St, Shortmarket St, Cape Town City Centre

Surfa Rosa

One of Cape Town’s last true punk dive bars, Surfa Rosa is a little bar with a big, edgy personality. The vibe is laid back, the music is loud, and the dance floor is never vacant. The space hosts live events most nights, with DJ sets and live band performances blasting through the walls and ensuring everyone on the street knows it’s party time.

This month, dancers take to the floor as Bennibefunkin, Sister Midnight and Ghostease control the DJ set before Surfa Rosa’s resident DJs Fuzznights & Friends take over the acoustics until late into the night. Happy Hour is available every day from 4pm – 7pm. More information is available on their website and Instagram.

When: Thursday, 1 October 2026 | 9pm – late
Where: 61 Harrington St, Cape Town

Culture Wine Bar

Famous among enthusiasts for its curated selection of wines, ranging from sought-after imports to hidden African gems, Culture Wine Bar is a vibrant social space among the Bree Street favourites. It regularly hosts live music bands, livening up the atmosphere with some of the best up-and-coming local musicians.

When: First Thursdays | 6pm – 9pm
Where: 103 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town

Sofar Sounds x Black Betty

The beloved jewellery and piercing store is teaming up with live music organisers Sofar Sounds for a night of live performances, accessory shopping, and exclusive piercing offers throughout. The show features versatile singer Francesca Biancoli alongside self-proclaimed ‘R&Banger’ artist Alex Biaya.

Cost: R250 per person. Book now on the website.

When: Thursday, 1 October 2026 | 6.30pm for 7pm
Where: Black Betty Jewellery Store, 77 Hout Street, Cape Town City Centre

Le Pickle

The beloved smashburger spot Le Pickle, known for its Claremont and De Waterkant locations, is launching its Bree Street branch this First Thursday. Guests can indulge in their beloved pickle-forward burgers and Happy Hour drinks throughout the night.

When: Thursday, 1 October 2026
Where: 215 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre

Harringtons

This classic and stylish cocktail lounge, restaurant and boutique bar evokes a nostalgic sense of opulence, style and sophistication. With panoramic windows overlooking the bustling nightlife of the East City neighbourhood, the place features lush, inviting décor that takes guests back to a time when disco was alive, and drinks were cheap.

This Thursday is a Thrift Fest special, with the pop-up vintage market bringing 20+ stalls of thrift clothing, accessories, and more.

Guests enjoy 40% off selected cocktails, house wines and Harry’s pouring spirits during their Happy Hour from 4pm to 7pm. 

When: Thursday, 1 October 2026 | 5pm – 9pm
Where: Harringtons Cocktail Lounge, 61b Harrington Street, Cape Town

The Athletic Club & Social

This three-storey bar is a sophisticated wine-and-jazz venue with a Mediterranean menu, cocktails, and a hidden basement bar. Perfect for a couples’ dinner upstairs before heading downstairs to enjoy the grooving melodies of Cape Town’s lively jazz scene, Athletic Club & Social is a great late-night destination for dressing up and enjoying a relaxed evening with loved ones.

Cost: R250 per person. Book tickets now on Fixr.

When: Thursday, 1 October 2026 | 8pm – 10pm
Where: 35 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town City Centre

Bascule Bar

Set on the Waterfront marina, this whiskey and cocktail bar is known for its wide selection of drinks, lush decor, intimate conversations, and a curated collection of African art. On First Thursdays, the space hosts live jazz to enhance the vibrant atmosphere, along with a special offer on Martell cognac.

When: First Thursdays | 6pm – 12am
Where: Cape Grace Hotel, W Quay Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

First Thursday at Clay Café in the City

Clay Café in the City is a ceramic painting venue and tapas bar. Enjoy a creative space that strives to teach like-minded adults to be creative, learn new techniques, and just have some fun while exploring, enjoying tapas, and relaxing to relaxing music.

This month’s offering includes a Thirsty Thursday buy-one-get-one-free drinks special, alongside R60 tapas.

Cost: R45 (studio fee) | Book now on Dineplan.

When: First Thursdays | 4pm – 10pm
Where: 199 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre

Ground Art Caffe

Mixing acclaimed coffee with an avant-garde art gallery, Ground Art Caffe is a refined space in the heart of De Waterkant. On the art side, there is always an exhibition on show, with regular First Thursday events that highlight some of Cape Town’s up-and-coming creatives in a more low-key, inviting setting than a luxurious art gallery.

In October, artist Tara Deacon exhibits A World of Wonder:
This collection of original paintings is centred around editorial and print works created as part of the 2024/25 Philharmonie Luxembourg children’s programme. Drawing inspiration from classics such as The Snow Queen, Robin Hood and Pinocchio, as well as fantasy, play and humour, the illustrations were created as visual components to music, storytelling and musical theatre.

When: Thursday, 1 October 2026 | 6pm – 8pm
Where: 160 Strand St, De Waterkant, Cape Town 

House of Machines

The Cape Town destination for bikers, coffee lovers, and live music enthusiasts, House of Machines is an always-busy social bar that appeals to a wide range of Capetonians with its varied events, chatty atmosphere, and unique aesthetic. Over the last few years, it has become one of the city’s premier live music spots, often platforming up-and-coming talent at affordable prices.

The venue is still moving to its new location just next door, meaning First Thursday is outside on Shortmarket Street. As always, House of Machines is free to check out, with live DJs playing throughout the night and classic drinks on the menu.

When: Thursday, 1 October 2026 | 6pm – late
Where: 84 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town City Centre

Fable

Home to Cape Town’s most innovative and immersive cocktail menu, Fable is also known for its variety of live in-house entertainment, ranging from world-class musicians to professional fire eaters. With a lineup of local DJs and a live saxophone player this First Thursday, Fable is perfect for experienced cocktail enthusiasts wanting to try something new, and complete beginners wanting to see what the hype is about.

Bookings can be made on the website.

When: Tuesday – Sunday | 4.30pm – late (Fri – Sun) | 5pm – late (Tue – Thu)
Where: Corner Bree & Wale St, Cape Town City Centre

The Artists Gallery

This unique independent gallery is a beautiful, dynamic space dedicated to showcasing art that ignites inspiration. Situated on vibrant Bree Street, The Artists Gallery is run by a collective of artists and art enthusiasts to highlight the full spectrum of artistic expression, from emerging talents to established figures.

SHE – Various artists

Following its successful exhibition in Hamburg, Germany, in 2022, SHE returns to Cape Town. This group exhibition brings together the work of nine exceptional female artists from South Africa. The exhibition will take place at 33BREE, in collaboration with The Artists Gallery, from 2 to 31 October 2026.

When: First Thursdays | From 6pm
Where: 34 Bree Street, cnr Waterkant Street, Cape Town City Centre

Clarke’s

A favourite among First Thursday gallery hoppers, this well-placed restaurant offers all-day breakfast, acclaimed burgers, and one of the most extensive cocktail lists anywhere in the CBD. With Clarke’s being on Bree Street near most of the big galleries and nightlife spots, it’s a great stop to sip, snack, and groove while keeping the night alive.

When: First Thursdays | 5pm – 11pm
Where: 133 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre

Vault on Bree

Vault on Bree is a new space at the corner of Bree and Castle Street, where Cape Town’s creative community can gather, share ideas, and grow together. Vault on Bree is a place for artists, designers, brands, and innovators to meet, collaborate, and explore new ways of expression. It’s been thoughtfully designed to encourage conversation, connection, and creativity, with the hope of nurturing a stronger sense of community in the city.

In partnership with Phil Kramer, the sound designer behind the system at One Park, the space includes a listening bar that puts music and atmosphere at its heart. Listening bars are intimate spaces dedicated to high-quality sound, inviting people to slow down, pay attention, and experience music more deeply and intentionally.

When: First Thursdays | 6pm till late
Where: c/o Bree and Castle Street, Cape Town City Centre

Everything About Vault on Bree

99 Loop Gallery

The gallery is dedicated to exhibiting contemporary and modern African art, representing a core group of emerging and established artists. These artists are either from the continent or have historic links to the greater African diaspora. Fine art on view includes work on paper, ceramics, photography, painting and sculpture.

Catching – Chuma Adam & Siyabonga Fani

Catching presents abstract paintings by Chuma Adam alongside the fired clay vessels of Siyabonga Fani. Across dimensionality and form, their work explores embodied practice, nature and selfhood.

When: First Thursdays | 5pm – 8pm
Where: 99 Loop Street, Cape Town

Mojo Silly Thursdays

Mojo Market’s flagship weekly comedy night features new lineups each time, platforming fresh debutants alongside established, veteran acts.

This week, Kurt Langeveld hosts the lineup, featuring Taffy, Kaashief Stellenboom, and headliner Mel Jones.

When: First Thursdays | From 7.30pm
Where: 30 Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town

Openwine

A vibrant wine-focused bar in Wale Street, Openwine brings together walls of sought-after blends with frequent live jazz sessions for a refined tasting and pairing experience. Often importing rare and international wines, Openwine prides itself on stocking unique, small-batch labels outside of the usual big brands found in stores.

For their “Our Beautiful Thursdays” series, they’re hosting live performance sets from many of their house bands, including Three Brothers, Funkoff, and Eleventh Hour, playing throughout the evening.

When: First Thursdays | 8pm – late
Where: 72 Wale St, Cape Town City Centre

Signature Art Gallery

Signature Art Gallery offers a new art experience for collectors, investors, and general art lovers.

Africa Art Collection:

A new section of the gallery dedicated to really good Africa-themed art. A collection of paintings, graphite drawing and photography by artists from South Africa, Malawi, Nigeria, Botswana, Luxembourg and Russia.

When: First Thursdays | From 6pm
Where: 14 Long Street, cnr of Riebeek & Long Street, Cape Town

Chingadas

This vibrant Tex-Mex restaurant thrives on colourful decor, messy eating, and lots of cocktails. The space is made up of many interleading rooms and multiple fireplaces, ensuring the atmosphere is as warm as the food. It’s a relatively new addition to the trendy spots near Kloof Street, distinguishing itself with its family-friendly environment and proudly Mexican identity.

Chingadas is perhaps best known for its build-your-own margarita, with a handy guide that teaches guests how to make the perfect drink. Its food menu is extensive, with traditional favourites such as nachos and fajitas, as well as unique offerings like avocado fries and a churro cheesecake.

Book a table on Dineplan.

When: Tuesday – Sunday | 12pm – 11pm (Tue – Thu) | 12pm – 12am (Fri & Sat) | 12pm – 9pm (Sun)
Where: 50 Orange St, Gardens, Cape Town

Lemkus Gallery

A multi-generational company dating back to 1935, LEMKUS is a space for design and creativity. On the fourth floor is Lemkus Gallery, home of the Residency28 programme.

When: First Thursdays | 6pm – 8pm
Where: 28 St Georges’ Mall, Cape Town City Centre

Idiots Unplugged Karaoke at Village Idiot

Those with (and without) singing chops can have some fun on the mic with this karaoke experience. All singers get free shots, and the restaurant offers 50% off food, Happy Hour from 6pm to 8pm and a R500 Bar Tab for Songbird Of The Night.

When: First Thursdays | 6pm – 11pm
Where: The Village Idiot, 32 Loop Street, Cape Town

Vela Projects

Founded in 2022 with a pop-up exhibition, Vela Projects now presents a boutique selection of African artists and offers a programme that resonates with global culture and champions the development of artistic careers.

Metaphorical Biographies – Santu Mofokeng

Taking as it’s starting point the evolving legacy of photography in Southern Africa, Metaphorical Biography places a new generation of photographers alongside a small section of works by Santu Mofokeng, one of the seminal figures in the history of South African art. Drawing from Mofokeng’s concept of the metaphoric biography, the exhibition includes practices which have a close emphasis of biography, personal experience and history – especially within the context of a post-democratic South Africa.

When: First Thursdays | 5pm – 8pm
Where: 66 Plein Street, Cape Town

Museum of Gems and Jewellery: Hidden Treasures

The Museum of Gems and Jewellery tells the story of South Africa’s diamonds and precious metals, and how earthly treasures are transformed into precious heirlooms through creativity.

ON SHOW: Hidden Treasures

Discover a world of gemmological and jewellery wonder at the Museum of Gems & Jewellery, housed in the 18th-century Huguenot House. On First Thursdays, explore South Africa’s rich mineral, cultural, and artistic heritage through an intimate, beautifully curated journey spanning 3 billion years.

When: First Thursdays | 5pm – 8pm
Where: 66 Loop Street, Cape Town

Ebony/Curated

Since its establishment in 2015, the gallery has continued to support creatives whose practices engage with intimate lived experiences within broader cultural and aesthetic contexts. Loop Editions is an add-on to the gallery, showcasing artists’ originals, editions, and collectables in a bright, sunny café space adjacent to the gallery.

When: First Thursdays | 5pm – 9pm
Where: 67 Loop Street, Cape Town City Centre

Leo’s Wine Bar

A staple of the First Thursday night out, Leo’s Wine Bar is inside a bagel shop on Bree Street. The shop pours low-intervention wines from smaller producers, with a healthy selection of natural wines always available to enjoy.

When: Monday – Saturday | 5pm – 11pm
Where: Leo’s Wine Bar, 120 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre

Discover more art galleries & events in Cape Town